Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek
Makalu Region
Overview
The Kanchenjunga Base Camp Trek offers an expedition to eastern Nepal’s remote wilderness beneath the world’s third-highest peak (8,586m). Covering approximately 220 kilometers, this comprehensive journey traverses subtropical forests, rhododendron groves, and alpine terrain to reach both North Base Camp at Pangpema (5,143m) and South Base Camp at Oktang (4,730m), providing unparalleled access to pristine Himalayan landscapes.
Trekkers experience spectacular panoramic views of the Kanchenjunga massif, Mount Jannu, and pristine glaciers throughout the expedition. The route traverses the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area, showcasing exceptional biodiversity including red pandas and endemic bird species. Cultural immersion with indigenous Rai, Limbu, and Sherpa communities enriches the journey, while crossing challenging high passes like Sele La. Optional visits to historic Ilam tea gardens offer insight into regional heritage.
This expedition requires physically fit trekkers with high-altitude experience and proper acclimatization protocols. Mandatory requirements include trekking permits and licensed guide engagement. Access begins with a domestic flight from Kathmandu to Suketar, followed by teahouse accommodations through villages including Amjilosa and Lhonak. Optimal seasons are spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November), offering favorable weather conditions and exceptional mountain visibility for this challenging Himalayan adventure.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu (1,350 m)
Arrival, hotel check-in, rest, gear check, and trek briefing.
Day 2 – Fly to Bhadrapur & Drive to Ilam / Taplejung (1,820 m)
Scenic flight to eastern Nepal followed by a drive through tea estates and rolling hills.
Day 3 – Drive Taplejung to Sekathum (1,575 m)
Rugged off-road journey to the trek’s starting point.
Day 4 – Sekathum to Amjilosa (2,510 m) | 6 hrs
Steep trails through bamboo forests, waterfalls, and suspension bridges.
Day 5 – Amjilosa to Gyabla (2,730 m) | 4–5 hrs
Gradual ascent through lush valleys and Tibetan-influenced settlements.
Day 6 – Gyabla to Ghunsa (3,475 m) | 4–5 hrs
Enter the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area; reach the main Sherpa village.
Day 7 – Acclimatization Day in Ghunsa
Short hikes, monastery visits, and rest for altitude adaptation.
Day 8 – Ghunsa to Kambachen (4,150 m) | 6–7 hrs
Walk past alpine meadows and landslide-prone sections with mountain views.
Day 9 – Acclimatization Day in Kambachen
Optional hikes toward glaciers for better altitude adjustment.
Day 10 – Kambachen to Lhonak (4,785 m) | 6–7 hrs
Remote glacial valley trek beneath towering Himalayan peaks.
Day 11 – Lhonak to Pangpema (North Base Camp – 5,143 m) & Return | 7–8 hrs
Highlight day with close-up views of Kanchenjunga’s north face.
Day 12 – Lhonak to Ghunsa | 7 hrs
Long descent back through familiar terrain.
Day 13 – Ghunsa to Gyabla / Amjilosa | 7 hrs
Descend through forests and river valleys.
Day 14 – Rest / Buffer Day
Contingency for weather, acclimatization, or delays.
Day 15 – Trek to Chirwa via Tortong (1,710 m) | 6 hrs
Riverside trails and mixed forests.
Day 16 – Chirwa to Tseram (3,870 m) | 7–8 hrs
Steady ascent into the southern Kanchenjunga region.
Day 17 – Acclimatization Day in Tseram
Short exploratory hikes and rest.
Day 18 – Tseram to Ramche (4,580 m) | 5 hrs
Alpine pastures with dramatic mountain scenery.
Day 19 – Ramche to Oktang (South Base Camp – 4,730 m) & Return | 6–7 hrs
Stunning views of Yalung Glacier, Kanchenjunga South, and Mt. Jannu (Kumbhakarna).
Day 20 – Ramche to Tortong / Omje (2,730 m) | 7 hrs
Steep forested descent.
Day 21 – Omje to Suketar (2,000 m) | 6 hrs
Final trek through villages and terraced fields.
Day 22 – Fly Suketar to Kathmandu
End of trek and onward departures.
Cost Included
- All domestic flight, hotel/airport transfer
- All ground transportation by private vehicles
- 12 B,L,D Lodging + Breakfast while return flight
- Experienced Local Guide and Porter
- All necessary paper works and permits
- All government and local taxes if necessary
Cost Excluded
- Nepal Visa fee (International airfare to & from home city)
- Excess personal baggage charges beyond 25kgs
- Hotel, Lunch & evening meals during Kathmandu stay
- Travel & rescue insurance
- Personal expenses e.g. phone calls, laundry, bar bills etc.
- Gratuity for staffs
- Optional trips and sightseeing if extend